Facilitating customization of a virtual space based on accessible virtual items

ABSTRACT

Virtual items may be unlocked in a virtual space responsive to physical token detection. A common virtual item repository may be provided in the virtual space. Once unlocked, a given virtual item may be accessible to multiple characters in the virtual space via the virtual item repository. Customization of a virtual space may be facilitated. The customization may be based on the virtual items accessible via the virtual item repository.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

This disclosure relates to facilitating customization of a virtual spacebased on accessible virtual items.

BACKGROUND

Conventionally, various virtual items in a virtual space may beaccessed. Such access, however, may be typically based on a stage orlevel of completion of gameplay within the virtual space. For example,in a videogame, a given virtual item may be accessed responsive to auser reaching a certain level of gameplay. Furthermore, for a givencharacter, the availability of specific virtual items may be limited tothe virtual items belonging to the given character.

SUMMARY

One aspect of the disclosure relates a system configured to unlockvirtual items in a virtual space responsive to physical token detection,provide a common virtual item repository in a virtual space, and/orfacilitate customization of a virtual space based on accessible virtualitems, in accordance with one or more implementations. In exemplaryimplementations, virtual items may be unlocked in the virtual spaceresponsive to physical token detection. A common virtual item repositorymay be provided in the virtual space. Once unlocked, a given virtualitem may be accessible to multiple characters in the virtual space viathe virtual item repository. Customization of a virtual space may befacilitated. The customization may be based on the virtual itemsaccessible via the virtual item repository.

The system may include one or more virtual space platforms. The virtualspace platform(s) may be configured to execute one or more computerprogram modules. The computer program modules may include one or more ofa user module, a space module, a token detection module, a virtual itemunlocking module, a virtual item repository module, a space modificationmodule, and/or other modules. The user module may be configured toaccess and/or manage one or more user profiles and/or user informationassociated with users of the system. The space module may be configuredto implement the instance of the virtual space executed by the computermodules to determine views of the virtual space.

The token detection module may be configured to detect tokens based onsignals received from a token reader. A given token may be a standalonephysical object. The given token may be associated with a givencharacter and/or a given virtual item. The given virtual item may beassociated with the given character. In some implementations, the givenvirtual item may be associated with the given character based on a themeshared by the given virtual item and the given character. In someimplementations, the given token may be configured to depict the givencharacter and/or the given virtual item. The given virtual item may beaccessible in the virtual space responsive to the given token beingdetected. Individual tokens may be configured to be detectable by thetoken reader.

The virtual item unlocking module may be configured to unlock individualones of a plurality of virtual items responsive to individual tokensbeing detected. Where the plurality of virtual items include the firstvirtual item and a second virtual item, the first virtual item may beunlocked responsive to the first token being detected and the secondvirtual item may be unlocked responsive to the second token beingdetected. The plurality of virtual items may include one or more of anaccessory, a virtual good, and/or other virtual items. Apreviously-locked virtual item may become accessible to one or morecharacters responsive to being unlocked. That is, until a given virtualitem is unlocked, it may not be accessible to any characters. In someimplementations, a given character accessing a given virtual item mayinclude the given character utilizing the given virtual item.

According to some implementations, the virtual item unlocking module maybe configured to unlock individual ones of the plurality of virtualitems responsive to a performance of one or more game mechanismsassociated with the virtual space. A game mechanism may include anaction, a mission, a quest, a task, and/or other game mechanism. In someimplementations, unlocking a given virtual item may require both a giventoken being detected and a given game mechanism being performed.

The virtual item repository module may be configured to provide avirtual item repository within the virtual space. The virtual itemrepository may be configured to facilitate and/or provide access by aplurality of characters to a plurality of virtual items. Where theplurality of characters include the first character and the secondcharacter, the plurality of virtual items may include a first virtualitem associated with the first character and a second virtual itemassociated with the second character. The first virtual item may beaccessible to the second character via the virtual item repository. Thesecond virtual item may be accessible to the first character via thevirtual item repository.

In some implementations, the virtual item repository may be visuallyrepresented at a location within the virtual space. By way ofnon-limiting example, the virtual item repository may be visuallyrepresented as a toy box within the virtual space. In someimplementations, a given character may be required to be locatedproximally with the visual representation of the virtual item repositoryin order to access individual ones of the plurality of virtual items.For example, the given character may be required to stand next to,enter, and/or otherwise be located proximally with the visualrepresentation of the virtual item repository in order to access a givenvirtual item.

According to some implementations, individual ones of the plurality ofvirtual items made accessible by the virtual item repository may beaccessible to a given character via an inventory associated with thegiven character. The inventory may be accessible via a menu and/or otherinterface associated with the virtual space.

Accessibility of virtual items via the virtual item repository may varyaccording to different implementations. In some implementations, thevirtual item repository may be configured such that a given virtual itemis accessed by two or more characters at a given time. In someimplementations, the virtual item repository may be configured such thata given virtual item is accessed by one single character at a giventime. The one single character may be required to relinquish the givenvirtual item in order for the given virtual item to be accessed byanother character.

The space modification module may be configured to facilitatemodifications to one or more aspects of the virtual space. The one ormore aspects of the virtual space may include objectives associated withthe virtual space, an environment of the virtual space, a theme of thevirtual space, and/or other aspects of the virtual space. Generallyspeaking, a given objective may be a purpose or goal that efforts oractions within the virtual space are intended to attain or accomplish.By way of non-limiting example, an objective may include a set ofactions that must be performed by a user character in order to advanceto a next level of gameplay in the virtual space.

The environment may be an aggregate of surroundings and conditions ofthe virtual space. By way on non-limiting example, the surroundings ofthe virtual space may include one or more of the appearance of thevirtual space, a color scheme of the virtual space, a sound and/orsoundtrack associated with the virtual space, and/or other aspects ofthe surroundings of the virtual space. The conditions of the virtualspace may include one or more of laws of nature (e.g., gravity) of thevirtual space, weather depicted in the virtual space, and/or otheraspects of the conditions of the virtual space. Modifying theenvironment may include modifying one or both of the surroundings or theconditions of the virtual space.

The theme of the virtual space may be a unifying subject associated withthe virtual space. A given character may be one of a given plurality ofcharacters associated with a given theme. Modifying the theme of thevirtual space based on the given theme may include incorporating one ormore attributes of the given theme in the theme of the virtual space.Examples of such attributes may include one or more of objects, designs,symbols, color schemes, music, and/or other attributes that identify agiven theme.

Modifications to the virtual space may be based on individual ones ofthe plurality of virtual items made accessible by the virtual itemrepository. For example, in some implementations, a given virtual itemhaving a given theme may be required to be accessible via the virtualitem repository in order for a thematic modification to the virtualspace based on the given theme to be effectuated. The modifications tothe virtual space may be made automatically based on individual ones ofthe plurality of virtual items made accessible by the virtual itemrepository.

In some implementations, the space modification module may be configuredsuch that modifications made to one or more aspects of the virtual spaceare associated with individual characters. That is, a first modificationassociated with the first character may cause the virtual space to beperceived in a first manner by the first character. A secondmodification associated with the second character may cause the virtualspace to be perceived in a second manner by the second character. Thefirst manner may be different from the second manner. By way ofnon-limiting example, the first character may perceive the virtual spaceat nighttime, while the second character may perceive the virtual spacein the daytime. The first character may perceive the virtual space inthe first manner responsive to accessing a given virtual item. Thesecond character may perceive the virtual space in the second mannerresponsive to accessing another given virtual item.

The space modification module may be configured to provide a spaceeditor interface. The space editor interface may be configured toreceive user input associated with the one or more aspects of thevirtual space. Modifications to the virtual space may be based on theuser input. In some implementations, the user input may be restrictedbased on individual ones of the plurality of virtual items madeaccessible by the virtual item repository. The user input provided by agiven user may be restricted based on one or more virtual items accessedby a given character, where the given character is associated with thegiven user.

These and other features, and characteristics of the present technology,as well as the methods of operation and functions of the relatedelements of structure and the combination of parts and economies ofmanufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of thefollowing description and the appended claims with reference to theaccompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification,wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in thevarious figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that thedrawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only andare not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. As usedin the specification and in the claims, the singular form of “a”, “an”,and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictatesotherwise.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a system configured to unlock virtual items in avirtual space responsive to physical token detection, provide a commonvirtual item repository in a virtual space, and/or facilitatecustomization of a virtual space based on accessible virtual items, inaccordance with one or more implementations.

FIG. 2 illustrates a space editor interface, in accordance with one ormore implementations.

FIG. 3 illustrates a method to provide a common virtual item repositoryin a virtual space, in accordance with one or more implementations.

FIG. 4 illustrates a method to unlock virtual items in a virtual spaceresponsive to physical token detection, in accordance with one or moreimplementations.

FIG. 5 illustrates a method to facilitate customization of a virtualspace, in accordance with one or more implementations.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates a system 100 configured to unlock virtual items in avirtual space responsive to physical token detection, provide a commonvirtual item repository in a virtual space, and/or facilitatecustomization of a virtual space based on accessible virtual items, inaccordance with one or more implementations. In exemplaryimplementations, virtual items may be unlocked in the virtual spaceresponsive to physical token detection. A common virtual item repositorymay be provided in the virtual space. Once unlocked, a given virtualitem may be accessible to multiple characters in the virtual space viathe virtual item repository. Customization of a virtual space may befacilitated. The customization may be based on the virtual itemsaccessible via the virtual item repository.

A given token may be configured to depict a given character and/or agiven virtual item. By way of non-limiting example, the given charactermay be Captain Jack Sparrow, the fictional character and protagonist ofthe Pirates of the Caribbean film series. The given virtual item may bean accessory associated with Captain Jack Sparrow, such as a sword. Thegiven token may be a toy figurine embodying the appearance of CaptainJack Sparrow and/or the sword. The toy figurine may be configured to bedetected by a token reader. In some implementations, the toy figurinemay be disposed upon the token reader in order for it to be detected.The sword may be made accessible in the virtual space responsive to thetoy figurine being detected.

According to some implementations, responsive to the toy figurine beingdetected, the sword may be made accessible to multiple characters in thevirtual space via the virtual item repository. That is, access to thesword via the virtual item repository may be granted to one or morecharacters associated with users other than the one that possesses thedetected token corresponding to the sword. In some implementations,modifications may be made to the virtual space based on the virtualitems accessible via the virtual item repository. Such modifications maybe made automatically and/or may be based on user input. For example, agiven modification based on the accessibility of the sword may include amodification to the theme of the virtual space so that it includeselements of the Pirates of the Caribbean theme.

The system 100 may include one or more virtual space platforms 102. Insome implementations, virtual space platform(s) 102 may be one or moreservers (e.g., server(s) 104) configured to communicate with one or moreclient computing platform (e.g., client computing platforms 106)according to a client/server architecture. According to someimplementations, virtual space platform(s) 102 may be one or more clientcomputing platforms (e.g., client computing platforms 106). In someimplementations, virtual space platform(s) 102 may communicate withother virtual space platform(s) 102 according to a peer-to-peerarchitecture. The users may access system 100 and/or the virtual spacevia the virtual space platform(s) 102 and/or client computingplatform(s) 106.

The virtual space platform(s) 102 may be configured to execute one ormore computer program modules. The computer program modules may includeone or more of a user module 108, a space module 110, a token detectionmodule 112, a virtual item unlocking module 114, a virtual itemrepository module 116, a space modification module 118, and/or othermodules.

The user module 108 may be configured to access and/or manage one ormore user profiles and/or user information associated with users ofsystem 100. The one or more user profiles and/or user information mayinclude information stored by virtual space platform(s) 102 and/or otherstorage locations. The user profiles may include, for example,information identifying users (e.g., a username or handle, a number, anidentifier, and/or other identifying information) within the virtualspace, security login information (e.g., a login code or password),virtual space account information, subscription information, virtualcurrency account information (e.g., related to currency held in creditfor a user), relationship information (e.g., information related torelationships between users in the virtual space), virtual space usageinformation, demographic information associated with users, interactionhistory among users in the virtual space, information stated by users,purchase information of users, browsing history of users, a clientcomputing platform identification associated with a user, a phone numberassociated with a user, and/or other information related to users.

The space module 110 may be configured to implement the instance of thevirtual space executed by the computer modules to determine views of thevirtual space. In some implementations, the views may then becommunicated (e.g., via streaming, via object/position data, and/orother information) from server(s) 104 to client computing platform(s)106 for presentation to users. The view determined and presented to agiven user may correspond to a user character being controlled by thegiven user. The view determined and presented to the given user maycorrespond to a location in the virtual space (e.g., the location fromwhich the view is taken, the location the view depicts, and/or otherlocations), a zoom ratio, a dimensionality of objects, a point-of-view,and/or view parameters. One or more of the view parameters may beselectable by the user.

The instance of the virtual space may comprise a simulated space that isaccessible by users via virtual space platform(s) 102 and/or clients(e.g., client computing platform(s) 106) that present the views of thevirtual space to a user. The simulated space may have a topography,express ongoing real-time interaction by one or more users, and/orinclude one or more objects positioned within the topography that arecapable of locomotion within the topography. In some instances, thetopography may be a 2-dimensional topography. In other instances, thetopography may be a 3-dimensional topography. The topography may includedimensions of the space, and/or surface features of a surface or objectsthat are “native” to the space. In some instances, the topography maydescribe a surface (e.g., a ground surface) that runs through at least asubstantial portion of the space. In some instances, the topography maydescribe a volume with one or more bodies positioned therein (e.g., asimulation of gravity-deprived space with one or more celestial bodiespositioned therein). The instance executed by the computer modules maybe synchronous, asynchronous, and/or semi-synchronous.

The above description of the manner in which views of the virtual spaceare determined by space module 110 is not intended to be limiting. Thespace module 110 may be configured to express the virtual space in amore limited, or richer, manner. For example, views determined for thevirtual space may be selected from a limited set of graphics depictingan event in a given place within the virtual space. The views mayinclude additional content (e.g., text, audio, pre-stored video content,and/or other content) that describes particulars of the current state ofthe place, beyond the relatively generic graphics. For example, a viewmay include a generic battle graphic with a textual description of theopponents to be confronted. Other expressions of individual placeswithin the virtual space are contemplated.

Within the instance(s) of the virtual space executed by space module110, users may control characters, objects, simulated physical phenomena(e.g., wind, rain, earthquakes, and/or other phenomena), and/or otherelements within the virtual space to interact with the virtual spaceand/or each other. The user characters may include avatars. As usedherein, the term “user character” may refer to an object (or group ofobjects) present in the virtual space that represents an individualuser. The user character may be controlled by the user with which it isassociated. The user controlled element(s) may move through and interactwith the virtual space (e.g., non-user characters in the virtual space,other objects in the virtual space). The user controlled elementscontrolled by and/or associated with a given user may be created and/orcustomized by the given user. The user may have an “inventory” ofvirtual goods and/or currency that the user can use (e.g., bymanipulation of a user character or other user controlled element,and/or other items) within the virtual space.

The users may participate in the instance of the virtual space bycontrolling one or more of the available user controlled elements in thevirtual space. Control may be exercised through control inputs and/orcommands input by the users through virtual space platform(s) 102 and/orclients (e.g., client computing platform(s) 106). The users may interactwith each other through communications exchanged within the virtualspace. Such communications may include one or more of textual chat,instant messages, private messages, voice communications, and/or othercommunications. Communications may be received and entered by the usersvia their respective virtual space platform(s) 102 and/or client(s)(e.g., client computing platform(s) 106). Communications may be routedto and from the appropriate users through virtual space platform(s) 102(e.g., through space module 110).

The token detection module 112 may be configured to detect tokens basedon signals received from a token reader 120. A given token (e.g., token122) may be a standalone physical object. The given token may beassociated with a given character and/or a given virtual item. The givenvirtual item may be associated with the given character. In someimplementations, the given virtual item may be associated with the givencharacter based on a theme shared by the given virtual item and thegiven character. By way of non-limiting example, the given character maybe Buzz Lightyear, the fictional character and deuteragonist of the ToyStory film series. The given virtual item may be the handheld “Blaster”used by Buzz Lightyear in the Toy Story film series. The character BuzzLightyear and the virtual item Blaster share the theme of the Toy Storyfilm series. Two different virtual items may have different themes. Forexample, the sword associated with Captain Jack Sparrow has a differenttheme than the Blaster associated with Buzz Lightyear. In someimplementations, the given token may be configured to depict the givencharacter and/or the given virtual item. The given virtual item may beaccessible in the virtual space responsive to the given token beingdetected. Examples of the given token may include one or more of a toyfigurine, a toy accessory, a coin, and/or other form factors suitable tobe tokens as described herein.

Individual tokens may be configured to be detectable by token reader120. In some implementations, detection of a given token may be based ona shape of a portion of the given token. In some implementations, agiven token may be detectable based on a given signal conveyinginformation associated with the given token. Detection of a given tokenmay be facilitated by electronics embedded within or otherwise includedin the given token. For example, the given token may include aradio-frequency identification (RFID) chip configured to emitradio-frequency electromagnetic fields responsive to the given tokenbeing disposed in a proximity of token reader 120. As another example,the given token may include an integrated circuit configured to transferinformation associated with the given token responsive to the giventoken being placed in contact with a portion of token reader 120.

According to some implementations, virtual space content associated withvirtual items and/or other virtual space content may be stored at alocation other than one or more of the tokens. That is, a given tokenmay not store virtual space content. A given token may store informationused to detect the given token. A given token may not store informationother than what may be used to detect the given token. Virtual spacecontent may be information used by space module 110 to affect viewsand/or gameplay of the virtual space. Such virtual space content may bestored by the virtual space platform(s) and/or by one or more othercomponents of system 100.

The token reader 120 may be configured to provide signals associatedwith individual tokens. For example, a given signal associated with agiven token may convey information associated with the given token. Insome implementations, token reader 120 may be configured to provide afirst signal responsive to one or more of (1) a first token abutting aportion of the token reader, (2) the first token being disposed in aproximity of the token reader, and/or other actions configured tofacilitate detection of the first token. According to someimplementations, token reader 120 may be a peripheral device configuredto be communicatively coupled with one or more components of system 100.In some implementations, token reader 120 may be integrated so as toform a singular device with a component of system 100 (e.g., a givenvirtual space platform 102).

The virtual item unlocking module 114 may be configured to unlockindividual ones of a plurality of virtual items responsive to individualtokens being detected. Where the plurality of virtual items include thefirst virtual item and a second virtual item, the first virtual item maybe unlocked responsive to the first token being detected and the secondvirtual item may be unlocked responsive to the second token beingdetected. The plurality of virtual items may include one or more of anaccessory, a virtual good, and/or other virtual items. Apreviously-locked virtual item may become accessible to one or morecharacters responsive to being unlocked. That is, until a given virtualitem is unlocked, it may not be accessible to any characters. In someimplementations, a given character accessing a given virtual item mayinclude the given character utilizing the given virtual item. Forexample, Captain Jack Sparrow may grab the sword and use it in a duel,or Buzz Lightyear may take hold of the Blaster and use it against a foe.

In some implementations, the plurality of virtual items may include athird virtual item. The third virtual item may be unlocked responsive totwo or more tokens (e.g., the first token and the second token) beingdetected. The two or more tokens may be detected by the same tokenreader 120 and/or by token readers 120 associated with different virtualspace platforms 102. The third virtual item may embody a combination ofa first theme of the first character and a second theme of the secondcharacter. By way of non-limiting example, the third virtual item may bean accessory that combines certain features of the sword and theBlaster.

According to some implementations, virtual item unlocking module 114 maybe configured to unlock individual ones of the plurality of virtualitems responsive to a performance of one or more game mechanismsassociated with the virtual space. A game mechanism may include anaction, a mission, a quest, a task, and/or other game mechanism. In someimplementations, unlocking a given virtual item may require both a giventoken being detected and a given game mechanism being performed.

The virtual item repository module 116 may be configured to provide avirtual item repository within the virtual space. The virtual itemrepository may be configured to facilitate and/or provide access by aplurality of characters to a plurality of virtual items. Where theplurality of characters include the first character and the secondcharacter, the plurality of virtual items may include a first virtualitem associated with the first character and a second virtual itemassociated with the second character. The first virtual item may beaccessible to the second character via the virtual item repository. Thesecond virtual item may be accessible to the first character via thevirtual item repository.

In some implementations, the virtual item repository may be visuallyrepresented at a location within the virtual space. By way ofnon-limiting example, the virtual item repository may be visuallyrepresented as a toy box within the virtual space. In someimplementations, a given character may be required to be locatedproximally with the visual representation of the virtual item repositoryin order to access individual ones of the plurality of virtual items.For example, the given character may be required to stand next to,enter, and/or otherwise be located proximally with the visualrepresentation of the virtual item repository in order to access a givenvirtual item.

According to some implementations, individual ones of the plurality ofvirtual items made accessible by the virtual item repository may beaccessible to a given character via an inventory associated with thegiven character. The inventory may be accessible via a menu and/or otherinterface associated with the virtual space.

Accessibility of virtual items via the virtual item repository may varyaccording to different implementations. In some implementations, thevirtual item repository may be configured such that a given virtual itemis accessed by two or more characters at a given time. In someimplementations, the virtual item repository may be configured such thata given virtual item is accessed by one single character at a giventime. The one single character may be required to relinquish the givenvirtual item in order for the given virtual item to be accessed byanother character.

The space modification module 118 may be configured to facilitatemodifications to one or more aspects of the virtual space. The one ormore aspects of the virtual space may include objectives associated withthe virtual space, an environment of the virtual space, a theme of thevirtual space, and/or other aspects of the virtual space. Generallyspeaking, a given objective may be a purpose or goal that efforts oractions within the virtual space are intended to attain or accomplish.By way of non-limiting example, an objective may include a set ofactions that must be performed by a user character in order to advanceto a next level of gameplay in the virtual space.

The environment may be an aggregate of surroundings and conditions ofthe virtual space. By way on non-limiting example, the surroundings ofthe virtual space may include one or more of the appearance of thevirtual space, a color scheme of the virtual space, a sound and/orsoundtrack associated with the virtual space, and/or other aspects ofthe surroundings of the virtual space. The conditions of the virtualspace may include one or more of laws of nature (e.g., gravity) of thevirtual space, weather depicted in the virtual space, and/or otheraspects of the conditions of the virtual space. Modifying theenvironment may include modifying one or both of the surroundings or theconditions of the virtual space.

The theme of the virtual space may be a unifying subject associated withthe virtual space. A given character may be one of a given plurality ofcharacters associated with a given theme. By way of non-limitingexample, where the first character is Captain Jack Sparrow and thesecond character is Buzz Lightyear, the first theme may relate toPirates of the Caribbean and the second theme may relate to Toy Story.Modifying the theme of the virtual space based on the given theme mayinclude incorporating one or more attributes of the given theme in thetheme of the virtual space. Examples of such attributes may include oneor more of objects, designs, symbols, color schemes, music, and/or otherattributes that identify a given theme.

Modifications to the virtual space may be based on individual ones ofthe plurality of virtual items made accessible by the virtual itemrepository. For example, in some implementations, a given virtual itemhaving a given theme may be required to be accessible via the virtualitem repository in order for a thematic modification to the virtualspace based on the given theme to be effectuated. The modifications tothe virtual space may be made automatically based on individual ones ofthe plurality of virtual items made accessible by the virtual itemrepository.

In some implementations, space modification module 118 may be configuredsuch that modifications made to one or more aspects of the virtual spaceare associated with individual characters. That is, a first modificationassociated with the first character may cause the virtual space to beperceived in a first manner by the first character. A secondmodification associated with the second character may cause the virtualspace to be perceived in a second manner by the second character. Thefirst manner may be different from the second manner. By way ofnon-limiting example, the first character may perceive the virtual spaceat nighttime, while the second character may perceive the virtual spacein the daytime. The first character may perceive the virtual space inthe first manner responsive to accessing a given virtual item. Thesecond character may perceive the virtual space in the second mannerresponsive to accessing another given virtual item.

The space modification module 118 may be configured to provide a spaceeditor interface. The space editor interface may be configured toreceive user input associated with the one or more aspects of thevirtual space. Modifications to the virtual space may be based on theuser input. In some implementations, the user input may be restrictedbased on individual ones of the plurality of virtual items madeaccessible by the virtual item repository. The user input provided by agiven user may be restricted based on one or more virtual items accessedby a given character, where the given character is associated with thegiven user.

FIG. 2 illustrates a space editor interface 200, in accordance with oneor more implementations. The space editor interface 200 may be presentedvia virtual space platform(s) 102 and/or client computing platform(s)106. As depicted in FIG. 2, user selection interface 200 may include oneor more of a virtual item selection field 202, an objective field 204,an environment field 206, a theme field 208, and/or other fields and/orinformation. The depiction of user selection interface 200 in FIG. 2 isnot intended to be limiting as one or more of fields 202, 204, 206,and/or 208 may be omitted or combined with another field.

The virtual item selection field 202 may be configured to provide, forpresentation, information associated with virtual items accessed by agiven character. In some implementation, virtual item selection field202 may facilitate selection of one or more virtual items to be accessedby a given character. The virtual item selection field 202 may beprovided by, or in conjunction with, a virtual item repository modulethat is the same as or similar to virtual item repository module 116, inaccordance with one or more implementations.

The objective field 204 may be configured to receive user inputassociated with the objectives effectuated in the virtual space. In someimplementations, the user input as to objectives may be restricted basedon (1) which virtual items are made accessible by the virtual itemrepository and/or (2) which virtual items are accessed by a givencharacter. The objective field 204 may be provided by, or in conjunctionwith, a space modification module that is the same as or similar tospace modification module 118, in accordance with one or moreimplementations.

The environment field 206 may be configured to receive user selectionsassociated with modifications to the environment of the virtual space.In some implementations, the user input as to the environment may berestricted based on (1) which virtual items are made accessible by thevirtual item repository and/or (2) which virtual items are accessed by agiven character. The environment field 206 may be provided by, or inconjunction with, a space modification module that is the same as orsimilar to space modification module 118, in accordance with one or moreimplementations.

The theme field 208 may be configured to receive user selectionsassociated with the theme of the virtual space. In some implementations,the user input as to the theme may be restricted based on (1) whichvirtual items are made accessible by the virtual item repository and/or(2) which virtual items are accessed by a given character. The themefield 208 may be provided by, or in conjunction with, a spacemodification module that is the same as or similar to space modificationmodule 118, in accordance with one or more implementations.

In some implementations, two or more components of system 100 (e.g.,virtual space platform(s) 102, server(s) 104, client computingplatform(s) 106, token reader 120, and/or external resources 124) may beoperatively linked via one or more electronic communication links. Forexample, such electronic communication links may be established, atleast in part, via a network such as the Internet and/or other networks.It will be appreciated that this is not intended to be limiting, andthat the scope of this disclosure includes implementations in which twoor more components of system 100 may be operatively linked via someother communication media.

A given server 104 may include one or more processors configured toexecute computer program modules. The computer program modules may beconfigured to enable an expert or user associated with the given server104 to interface with system 100 and/or external resources 124, and/orprovide other functionality attributed herein to server(s) 104.

A given client computing platform 106 may include one or more processorsconfigured to execute computer program modules. The computer programmodules may be configured to enable an expert or user associated withthe given client computing platform 106 to interface with system 100and/or external resources 124, and/or provide other functionalityattributed herein to client computing platform(s) 106. By way ofnon-limiting example, the given client computing platform 106 mayinclude one or more of a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a handheldcomputer, a NetBook, a Smartphone, a gaming console, and/or othercomputing platforms.

The external resources 124 may include sources of information, hostsand/or providers of virtual environments outside of system 100, externalentities participating with system 100, and/or other resources. In someimplementations, some or all of the functionality attributed herein toexternal resources 124 may be provided by resources included in system100.

The virtual space platform(s) 102 may include electronic storage 126,one or more processors 128, and/or other components. The virtual spaceplatform(s) 102 may include communication lines, or ports to enable theexchange of information with a network and/or other computing platforms.Illustration of virtual space platform(s) 102 in FIG. 1 is not intendedto be limiting. The virtual space platform(s) 102 may include aplurality of hardware, software, and/or firmware components operatingtogether to provide the functionality attributed herein to virtual spaceplatform(s) 102. For example, virtual space platform(s) 102 may beimplemented by a cloud of computing platforms operating together asvirtual space platform(s) 102.

Electronic storage 126 may comprise electronic storage media thatelectronically stores information. The electronic storage media ofelectronic storage 126 may include one or both of system storage that isprovided integrally (i.e., substantially non-removable) with virtualspace platform(s) 102 and/or removable storage that is removablyconnectable to virtual space platform(s) 102 via, for example, a port(e.g., a USB port, a firewire port, etc.) or a drive (e.g., a diskdrive, etc.). Electronic storage 126 may include one or more ofoptically readable storage media (e.g., optical disks, etc.),magnetically readable storage media (e.g., magnetic tape, magnetic harddrive, floppy drive, etc.), electrical charge-based storage media (e.g.,EEPROM, RAM, etc.), solid-state storage media (e.g., flash drive, etc.),and/or other electronically readable storage media. The electronicstorage 126 may include one or more virtual storage resources (e.g.,cloud storage, a virtual private network, and/or other virtual storageresources). Electronic storage 126 may store software algorithms,information determined by processor(s) 128, information received fromone or more other components of system 100, and/or other informationthat enables virtual space platform(s) 102 to function as describedherein.

The processor(s) 128 may be configured to provide information processingcapabilities in virtual space platform(s) 102. As such, processor(s) 128may include one or more of a digital processor, an analog processor, adigital circuit designed to process information, an analog circuitdesigned to process information, a state machine, and/or othermechanisms for electronically processing information. Althoughprocessor(s) 128 is shown in FIG. 1 as a single entity, this is forillustrative purposes only. In some implementations, processor(s) 128may include a plurality of processing units. These processing units maybe physically located within the same device, or processor(s) 128 mayrepresent processing functionality of a plurality of devices operatingin coordination. The processor(s) 128 may be configured to executemodules 108, 110, 112, 114, 116, 118, and/or other modules. Theprocessor(s) 128 may be configured to execute modules 108, 110, 112,114, 116, 118, and/or other modules by software; hardware; firmware;some combination of software, hardware, and/or firmware; and/or othermechanisms for configuring processing capabilities on processor(s) 128.

It should be appreciated that although modules 108, 110, 112, 114, 116,and 118 are illustrated in FIG. 1 as being co-located within a singleprocessing unit, in implementations in which processor(s) 128 includesmultiple processing units, one or more of modules 108, 110, 112, 114,116, and/or 118 may be located remotely from the other modules. Thedescription of the functionality provided by the different modules 108,110, 112, 114, 116, and/or 118 described herein is for illustrativepurposes, and is not intended to be limiting, as any of modules 108,110, 112, 114, 116, and/or 118 may provide more or less functionalitythan is described. For example, one or more of modules 108, 110, 112,114, 116, and/or 118 may be eliminated, and some or all of itsfunctionality may be provided by other ones of modules 108, 110, 112,114, 116, and/or 118. As another example, processor(s) 128 may beconfigured to execute one or more additional modules that may performsome or all of the functionality attributed below to one of modules 108,110, 112, 114, 116, and/or 118.

FIG. 3 illustrates a method 300, FIG. 4 illustrates a method 400, andFIG. 5 illustrates a method 500, in accordance with one or moreimplementations. The operations of method 300, method 400, and/or method500 presented below are intended to be illustrative. In someembodiments, method 300, method 400, and/or method 500 may beaccomplished with one or more additional operations not described,and/or without one or more of the operations discussed. Additionally,the order in which the operations of method 300, method 400, and/ormethod 500 are respectively illustrated in FIG. 3, FIG. 4, and/or FIG. 5and described below is not intended to be limiting.

In some embodiments, method 300, method 400, and/or method 500 may beimplemented in one or more processing devices (e.g., a digitalprocessor, an analog processor, a digital circuit designed to processinformation, an analog circuit designed to process information, a statemachine, and/or other mechanisms for electronically processinginformation). The one or more processing devices may include one or moredevices executing some or all of the operations of method 300, method400, and/or method 500 in response to instructions stored electronicallyon an electronic storage medium. The one or more processing devices mayinclude one or more devices configured through hardware, firmware,and/or software to be specifically designed for execution of one or moreof the operations of method 300, method 400, and/or method 500.

The method 300, illustrated in FIG. 3, is for unlocking virtual items ina virtual space responsive to physical token detection, in accordancewith one or more implementations.

At an operation 302, the virtual space may be implemented to determineviews of the virtual space. Operation 302 may be performed by a spacemodule that is the same as or similar to space module 110, in accordancewith one or more implementations.

At an operation 304, one or more tokens may be detected based on signalsreceived from a token reader. A given token may be associated with agiven character and/or a given virtual item. The given virtual item maybe associated with the given character. Operation 304 may be performedby a token detection module that is the same as or similar to tokendetection module 112, in accordance with one or more implementations.

At an operation 306, individual virtual items may be unlocked responsiveto individual tokens being detected. Operation 306 may be performed by avirtual item unlocking module that is the same as or similar to virtualitem unlocking module 114, in accordance with one or moreimplementations.

At an operation 308, a virtual item repository may be provided withinthe virtual space. The virtual item repository may be configured tofacilitate access by characters to the unlocked virtual items. Operation308 may be performed by a virtual item repository module that is thesame as or similar to virtual item repository module 116, in accordancewith one or more implementations.

The method 400, illustrated in FIG. 4, is for providing a common virtualitem repository in a virtual space, in accordance with one or moreimplementations.

At an operation 402, the virtual space may be implemented to determineviews of the virtual space. Operation 402 may be performed by a spacemodule that is the same as or similar to space module 110, in accordancewith one or more implementations.

At an operation 404, a virtual item repository may be provided withinthe virtual space. Operation 404 may be performed by a virtual itemrepository module that is the same as or similar to virtual itemrepository module 116, in accordance with one or more implementations.

At an operation 406, access by a plurality of characters to a pluralityof virtual items may be provided via the virtual item repository.Operation 406 may be performed by a virtual item repository module thatis the same as or similar to virtual item repository module 116, inaccordance with one or more implementations.

The method 500, illustrated in FIG. 5, is for facilitating customizationof a virtual space based on accessible virtual items, in accordance withone or more implementations.

At an operation 502, the virtual space may be implemented to determineviews of the virtual space. Operation 502 may be performed by a spacemodule that is the same as or similar to space module 110, in accordancewith one or more implementations.

At an operation 504, a virtual item repository may be provided withinthe virtual space. The virtual item repository may be configured toprovide access by a plurality of characters to a plurality of virtualitems. Operation 504 may be performed by a virtual item repositorymodule that is the same as or similar to virtual item repository module116, in accordance with one or more implementations.

At an operation 506, a space editor interface may be provided. The spaceeditor interface may be configured to receive user input associated withthe one or more aspects of the virtual space. The modifications to thevirtual space may be based on the user input. Operation 506 may beperformed by a space modification module that is the same as or similarto space modification module 118, in accordance with one or moreimplementations.

At an operation 508, modifications may be facilitated to one or moreaspects of the virtual space. The modifications may be based onindividual ones of the plurality of virtual items made accessible by thevirtual item repository. Operation 508 may be performed by a spacemodification module that is the same as or similar to space modificationmodule 118, in accordance with one or more implementations.

Although the present technology has been described in detail for thepurpose of illustration based on what is currently considered to be themost practical and preferred implementations, it is to be understoodthat such detail is solely for that purpose and that the technology isnot limited to the disclosed implementations, but, on the contrary, isintended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements that arewithin the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, it isto be understood that the present technology contemplates that, to theextent possible, one or more features of any implementation can becombined with one or more features of any other implementation.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system configured to facilitate customizationof a virtual space based on accessible virtual items, the systemcomprising: one or more processors configured to execute computerprogram modules, the computer program modules comprising: a space moduleconfigured to implement the virtual space to determine views of thevirtual space; a virtual item repository module configured to provide avirtual item repository within the virtual space, the virtual itemrepository being configured to provide access by a plurality ofcharacters to a plurality of virtual items, the plurality of charactersincluding a first character and a second character, the plurality ofvirtual items including a first virtual item associated with the firstcharacter and a second virtual item associated with the secondcharacter, the first virtual item being accessible to the secondcharacter via the virtual item repository and the second virtual itembeing accessible to the first character via the virtual item repository;and a space modification module is configured to facilitatemodifications to one or more aspects of the virtual space, themodifications being based on individual ones of the plurality of virtualitems made accessible by the virtual item repository.
 2. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the one or more aspects include objectives associatedwith the virtual space, a given objective being a purpose or goal thatefforts or actions within the virtual space are intended to attain oraccomplish.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more aspectsinclude an environment of the virtual space, the environment being anaggregate of surroundings and conditions of the virtual space.
 4. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the one or more aspects include a theme ofthe virtual space, the theme of the virtual space being a unifyingsubject associated with the virtual space.
 5. The system of claim 1,wherein the space modification module is further configured to provide aspace editor interface, the space editor interface configured to receiveuser input associated with the one or more aspects of the virtual space,the modifications to the virtual space being based on the user input. 6.The system of claim 5, wherein the user input is restricted based onindividual ones of the plurality of virtual items made accessible by thevirtual item repository.
 7. The system of claim 5, wherein the userinput provided by a given user is restricted based on one or morevirtual items accessed by a given character, the given character beingassociated with the given user.
 8. The system of claim 1, wherein themodifications to the virtual space are made automatically based onindividual ones of the plurality of virtual items made accessible by thevirtual item repository.
 9. The system of claim 1, further comprising avirtual item unlocking module configured to unlock individual ones of aplurality of virtual items responsive to individual tokens beingdetected based on signals received from a token reader, a given tokenbeing a standalone physical object, a previously locked virtual itembecoming accessible to one or more characters responsive to beingunlocked, the plurality of virtual items including the first virtualitem and the second virtual item, the first virtual item being unlockedresponsive to the first token being detected and the second virtual itembeing unlocked responsive to the second token being detected.
 10. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the space modification module is configuredsuch that modifications made to individual ones of the one or moreaspects of the virtual space are associated with individual characters,a first modification associated with the first character causing thevirtual space to be perceived in a first manner by the first character,and a second modification associated with the second character causingthe virtual space to be perceived in a second manner by the secondcharacter, the first manner being different from the second manner. 11.A computer-implemented method to facilitate customization of a virtualspace based on accessible virtual items, the method being performed byone or more processors configured to execute computer program modules,the method comprising: implementing the virtual space to determine viewsof the virtual space; providing a virtual item repository within thevirtual space, the virtual item repository being configured to provideaccess by a plurality of characters to a plurality of virtual items, theplurality of characters including a first character and a secondcharacter, the plurality of virtual items including a first virtual itemassociated with the first character and a second virtual item associatedwith the second character, the first virtual item being accessible tothe second character via the virtual item repository and the secondvirtual item being accessible to the first character via the virtualitem repository; and facilitating modifications to one or more aspectsof the virtual space, the modifications being based on individual onesof the plurality of virtual items made accessible by the virtual itemrepository.
 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the one or more aspectsinclude objectives associated with the virtual space, a given objectivebeing a purpose or goal that efforts or actions within the virtual spaceare intended to attain or accomplish.
 13. The method of claim 11,wherein the one or more aspects include an environment of the virtualspace, the environment being an aggregate of surroundings and conditionsof the virtual space.
 14. The method of claim 11, wherein the one ormore aspects include a theme of the virtual space, the theme of thevirtual space being a unifying subject associated with the virtualspace.
 15. The method of claim 11, further comprising providing a spaceeditor interface, the space editor interface configured to receive userinput associated with the one or more aspects of the virtual space, themodifications to the virtual space being based on the user input. 16.The method of claim 15, wherein the user input is restricted based onindividual ones of the plurality of virtual items made accessible by thevirtual item repository.
 17. The method of claim 15, wherein the userinput provided by a given user is restricted based on one or morevirtual items accessed by a given character, the given character beingassociated with the given user.
 18. The method of claim 11, wherein themodifications to the virtual space are made automatically based onindividual ones of the plurality of virtual items made accessible by thevirtual item repository.
 19. The method of claim 11, further comprisingunlocking individual ones of a plurality of virtual items responsive toindividual tokens being detected based on signals received from a tokenreader, a given token being a standalone physical object, a previouslylocked virtual item becoming accessible to one or more charactersresponsive to being unlocked, the plurality of virtual items includingthe first virtual item and the second virtual item, the first virtualitem being unlocked responsive to the first token being detected and thesecond virtual item being unlocked responsive to the second token beingdetected.
 20. The method of claim 11, wherein modifications made toindividual ones of the one or more aspects of the virtual space areassociated with individual characters, a first modification associatedwith the first character causing the virtual space to be perceived in afirst manner by the first character, and a second modificationassociated with the second character causing the virtual space to beperceived in a second manner by the second character, the first mannerbeing different from the second manner.